POLICE have assured residents in Hesketh Bank that burglaries are on the decline, after a number of men were arrested and charged.

Four men, from the Knowsley area of Liverpool have been arrested. The number of burglaries in the area has since dropped, it has been reported.

A spokesman for Sefton Crime Prevention office said: “Since their arrest the number of burglaries in the area has dropped significantly.”

The spokesman reminded residents of the importance of staying safe over Christmas, advising people not to leave presents or valuables visible through windows.

Residents are also urged to keep their doors locked and house alarms on when they leave their property, and, if possible, when they go to bed.

The spokesman added: “Use internal timer switches. This gives the impression that someone is at home, which is particularly important during the dark nights. Keep your keys out of sight, away from doors and windows, and never leave your keys under a plant pot or doormat, as burglars know all the ‘secret places’.”

l For residents that wish to security mark their belongings, Smartwater is available to Home Watch members, for a one off payment of £15, instead of the usual price of £38 plus a yearly registration fee.